“Okay, we're here.” Says the black-robed man. He gets off the carriage, and the others follow after. The black-robed man smiles. “This is the Settler Bar. This place is great. Best whiskey I've ever had, and the food is pretty good.” He says before leading the way inside.

Serah looks to Samantha and walks in. Samantha lets out a sigh and follows. Nickie strolls on in afterwards.

“Hey, Rockie, can you get me a drink? Is there any of the Sapphire City wine left? That stuff wasn't bad.” The black-robe man says with a smile.

Serah strolls to the counter. “Can I get a glass of red wine please?” She asks.

Nickie smiles. “Do you guys sell burgers?” She asks.

“Just a water for me, thanks.” Samantha says as she takes a seat.

The man behind the counter throws his towel on his shoulder. “Just a steak for Jerry here. Some red wine, a cheeseburger, and a water. Coming right up.” He says before strolling to the kitchen behind him.

“Hey! What about my wine!?” The black-robed man asks, discontent.

“You can have one glass of whiskey after you’ve had your meal. You’re not allowed to drink too much around here. You get crazy when you’ve had too much.” He says before choosing to ignore the man.

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The black-robed man lets out a sigh and sits down.

Serah looks to Samantha. “Is it me or is this guy a little weird?” She asks.

Samantha lets out a sigh, choosing to ignore the question.

“Hey, this just looks like a bar to me. What’s so special about this place?” Nickie asks.

“You can get access to the Shadow Order’s network here, and there’s teleportation portals if necessary.” Jerry says with a smile. “Rocky is also pretty informed. He can let you know what you need to know.” He says. “I’m just here to sign you guys up for training then I’ll probably go. Hey, Rocky! Can I get that steak to go!” He calls out.

“Yeah, yeah.” Rocky says from behind the door. “It will be out in a moment.” He says.

…

…

“Alright. Here’s your steak. Take it and go. Leave the kids with me; I’ll direct them to their training.” Rocky says.

“Okay.” The black-robed man says. “I’ll leave it to you.” He says before taking his steak and leaving.

“Alright, kids. There’s a portal in the back. You guys are done with the college for now. You won’t have to worry about that for the moment. Just head to the back; the portal will lead you to our headquarters. Go there and find Athena, the administrator. She’ll direct you to the recruit campus.” Rocky says before waving them back.

“Do we have to go now? I haven’t finished my wine.” Serah says with some complaint.

“Yes. Go. They’ll be expecting you.” Rocky says.

Samantha sighs and puts down her glass. “Come on. Let’s go find out what this Shadow Order is.” She says, pulling Serah’s hand.

“Seriously! Is it me or have you two gotten closer!?” Nickie exclaims, a little anxious.

Serah smiles. “You’re imagining it. Come on, let’s go.” She says as she pulls Nickie’s hand.

“You two are no longer leaving my sight. I’m going to watch you like a hawk!” Nickie exclaims.

“Yeah, yeah. Let’s just go.” Serah says as she pulls the two girls away.

…

…

Serah, Samantha, and Nickie appear in the middle of a great hall.

“This place is huge!” Serah exclaims.

“That should be reception. Come on, let’s go.” Samantha says before leading the way.

“Why do I get the feeling that we got pulled into something weird. Should we be worried. This organization seems kind of out my league.” Nickie says somewhat worriedly.

“Don’t worry so much! It'll be fine!” Serah says without too much worry.